Representatives from Barcelona are in London in the hope of thrashing out a deal for Thomas Vermaelen as they face a straight with Manchester United to sign the defender. Arsene Wenger confirms Manchester United bid for Thomas Vermaelen as Louis van Gaal attempts to beat Barcelona to signature

Paul Lambert’s encouraging summer has taken a knock, after Charles N’Zogbia suffered an Achilles tendon injury on holiday in Miami, while Brett Holman looks to be on his way out of the club. Villa’s promising summer takes a hit as N’Zogbia injures himself on holiday in Miami